LIFE is about to get easier for expatriates applying for residence permits, foreign expert certificates and resident status.

Changning District government plans to officially open a new service center catering to overseas professionals at 999 Jinzhong Road in the Hongqiao area on March 18 following the success of a trial, Ye Miao, director of the district human resources and social security bureau, said yesterday.

"Since the district has attracted more foreign experts to work and live, it is essential to set up a new service center where the three major certificates for the overseas professionals can be applied for quickly," Ye told Shanghai Daily.